OSHA opens investigation after two Wichita workers die in aerial lift collapse
Men were performing electrical maintenance at chemical facility
Posted: July 2, 2016 - 5:35pm
By Christian Gin
christian.gin@cjonline.com
The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Wichita office is investigating after two workers were killed Thursday, according to a news release.
Both men were employees of The Sperry Brothes Inc. and were performing electrical maintenance at the Occidental Chemical Corporation facility in Wichita. They were in an articulating boom basket nearly 55 feet above the ground when it collapsed and they fell.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the employees who lost their lives,” said Judy Freemon, OSHA’s area director in Wichita. “Aerial lifts are commonly used in construction and maintenance activities present various hazards to workers. OSHA will conduct a thorough investigation to see if any violations of OSHA standards contributed to this tragic incident.”
OSHA’s investigation will gather evidence, review company records and interview employees about the company’s recent history. There also will be reviews of any relevant documents.